The Promise

Product DescriptionThe Promise is a wonderful book for any lover of historical fiction." (New York Times bestselling author Heather Graham)In America for the last ten years, Rebecca Neville has raised her young charge as if he were her own son. But now, his father-the Earl of Stanmore-has learned of his fate and sends for him from England. Rebecca must do everything in her power to keep her promise to the boy's dead mother-and keep her heart safe from his mysterious father... After mistakenly believing she has murdered her lecherous employer, Rebecca Neville flees into the night and finds refuge with a mysterious lady traveling with a newborn baby. The woman helps Rebecca secure passage on a ship leaving England, and in return Rebecca assumes responsibility for the woman's child when his mother dies on the voyage to America. Ten years later Samuel Wakefield, the Earl of Stanmore, discovers the whereabouts of his son and demands he be returned to his real family. Now Rebecca must return to England with a boy whom she has come to think of as her own child and give him up to a total stranger. McGoldrick's gift for characterization extends from the book's courageous heroine and wounded hero down to a fascinating cast of secondary characters, including a viperous villain and a wonderfully scheming mistress. This vibrant Georgian historical is perfect for readers who like a nice mix of history and passion. John CharlesCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved September 28, 2001: When Rebecca Neville was attacked by her employer, she defended herself and had to flee from the law. During her flight, Rebecca met a dying woman, Elizabeth Stanmore, who was on her way to America with her new born son, James. They left London together with the agreement that once Elizabeth died, Rebecca would raise James as her own. Ten years had past when the lawyer for the Earl of Stanmore showed up at Rebecca Ford's door. James was hard of hearing and had one misshapen hand, but the kind lawyer relayed that the earl was claiming James as his heir. Rebecca went with them to London to make sure James was happy before she left his life. The father, Lord Stanmore, was a handsome, but cold hearted man who cared nothing for his new found son. Slowly, the earl saw what true love really was as he watched Rebecca and James. Passion ignited between Rebecca and the Earl. All might have been well, however, outside forces were at work. Lady Louisa Nisdale had been the Earl's mistress for quite a while and refused to acknowledge the fact that their affair was over. In addition, the Earl had been fighting in Parliament to end slavery in England. The Earl's neighbor, who owned and abused slaves, was none too happy about that either. A definite winner! The author is a husband and wife team who seem to have their pulse on what readers want to read! Excellent plot and interesting sub-plots that will capture the attention of its audience and hold onto them like cement glue! Highly recommended! Reviewed by Detra Fitch